President John Dramani Mahama has ruled out the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, insisting that such a drastic measure should only be considered as a last resort.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, September 10, the President acknowledged mounting pressure for tougher action but maintained that the country’s existing legal framework provides sufficient authority to curb the menace. He explained that security agencies and regulators already have the mandate to apprehend offenders, confiscate equipment, and enforce environmental and forestry laws.
Mr. Mahama cautioned against rushing into extreme measures, warning that while the idea of a state of emergency may appear attractive, it must remain a measure of last resort. “Declaring a state of emergency might seem like a quick fix, but for now, we must fully apply the powers at our disposal and only if the situation demands, then we can consider it,” he emphasized.
